December 23, 2008
The Post, Pakistan
Agencies

ISLAMABAD: After confirmation of a report that Indian and Israeli air forces have planned an attack on Pakistan's nuclear installations, Pakistan Air Force sprang into action by sending its fighter jets into the air to thwart a possible air strike on Monday, according to reliable sources.

Pakistan's Nuclear Control and Command Authority was directed to take necessary measures to deal with any emergency situation.

It has also been learnt that anti-aircraft guns and missiles are being installed at the country's nuclear installations. PAF has been directed to remain on high alert until further orders. After reports of a likely attack, passenger flights to Dubai, India and Lahore were stopped for some time.

Sources said a secret meeting of Israeli intelligence agency Mossad, CIA, FBI, RAW and MI 5 was held in which a possible attack on Pakistan's nuclear installation s was discussed. Fighter jets flew over big cities in Punjab Monday as the armed forces were placed on red alert amid mounting tensions between Pakistan and India after the Mumbai attacks.

Sources in the Defense Ministry said PAF fighter planes flew over Lahore, the twin cities of Rawalpini and Islambad and along the Line of Control with a view to thwarting any airspace violation and checking operational preparedness.

PAF Spokesman Humayun Waqar Zafar said PAF fighter planes were involved in routine flights, so there was no need for any sort of panic or fear.

"In view of the current environment, PAF has enhanced its vigilance," he said.

He said PAF was fully committed and determined to give a befitting response to the enemy.

On the other hand, a high-level meeting under Joint Chief of Staff Committee General Tariq Majeed was held here on Monday.

Sources say that during the meeting a host of issues concerning national security came under discussion.

Gen Tariq Majeed took in confidence the military leadership on various matters including his recent visit to China, sources said.

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